MileHacker Logo
Pre-Departure Steps

Pre-Departure Steps

Southwestern Nicaragua, Nicaragua

Chronological Timeline

A structured approach to your preparations.

Timeline Overview

Follow this timeline for a well-organized trip.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure 6+ months validity beyond departure. This is a common requirement for international travel.

Visa Requirements

Research requirements for your nationality. Verify the latest info from Nicaraguan Ministry of Interior or local embassy.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights, especially for high season (Dec-Apr) or holidays. Advance booking often finds good prices.

2

Month Before

Vaccinations

Consult your doctor for recommended shots and discuss necessary prescription medications.

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive Travel insurance. Verify coverage for medical emergencies and activities.

Airport Transfers

Arrange ground transport from your arrival airport to San Juan del Sur. Pre-booking lessens time and stress upon arrival.

3

Week Before

Small USD Bills

Obtain small U.S. Dollar bills for initial expenses like the tourist card fee at the border or airport, and small purchases.

Electronics

Charge all your electronics and Portable power banks.

Offline Maps

Download offline maps for San Juan del Sur and surrounding areas on Google Maps, plus the Spanish language pack for Google Translate.

Advance Bookings

Securing elements of your trip early.

Booking Priorities

  • International flights.
  • Accommodation, especially during high season.
  • Airport transfers to San Juan del Sur.
  • Any popular tours or activities with limited spots.

Home Checklist

Steps to take before you leave.

Before You Go

  • Secure your home: stop mail, arrange for plant watering or pet care.
  • Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary and emergency contact information.
  • Make copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations.

Documentation & Research

Preparing your documents and knowledge base.

Document Safeguards

  • Copies of passport, visa, insurance, reservations.
  • Store copies separately from the originals.
  • Keep emergency contact info handy.
  • Consider a secure document pouch.

Pre-Trip Learning

  • Read about Nicaraguan culture.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Review current travel advisories.
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs.

Packing & Tech

  • Pack your luggage, referring to the "What to Pack & Bring" section.
  • Lay out items to avoid forgetting anything.
  • Confirm all your reservations (flights, hotels, tours).
  • Ensure your phone is unlocked for a local SIM.

Arrival & Orientation

These steps lead to a smooth entry into Nicaragua and ease your orientation in San Juan del Sur.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Have your passport, completed immigration form, and the exact tourist card fee ready.

  • 2
    Locate Transport:

    Find your pre-arranged transport or proceed to the designated taxi stands, avoiding unofficial solicitations.

  • 3
    Inform Contacts:

    Send a quick message to family or friends confirming your safe arrival.

Getting Oriented

  • Familiarize Yourself:

    Once at your accommodation, take a few minutes to explore its immediate surroundings and identify services.

  • Local SIM Card:

    If you have an Unlocked phone, purchase a local SIM card from a Claro or Tigo store.

  • Currency Exchange & Water:

    Exchange a small amount of USD to NIO at an ATM, and immediately start using your water filter bottle.

Orientation Strategies

Town Layout

Get a feel for the town's layout. Most of San Juan del Sur is easily walkable.

Identify local landmarks and your proximity to attractions.

Internet Access

Ensure you have a reliable internet connection for communication and further planning.

Many cafes and hostels offer Wi-Fi access.

Initial Funds

Have enough local currency or small USD bills for immediate expenses upon arrival.

This covers transport, snacks, or initial purchases.

Travel Tip

Familiarize yourself with your surroundings and secure local connectivity soon after arriving. This aids your initial days in San Juan del Sur.

Departure Details

These considerations help with a smooth departure from San Juan del Sur.

Souvenirs & Logistics

  • Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure day to avoid last-minute rush.
  • Be aware of your luggage weight limits if buying heavy items like Flor de Caña rum or coffee.
  • Shipping items home from Nicaragua can prove expensive and complicated.
  • Nicaragua does not typically have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your onward flights or bus tickets.
  • Ensure you possess all necessary documents for your next destination.
  • Prepare documents for re-entry into your home country.
  • Consider exchanging any remaining Nicaraguan Córdobas back into U.S. Dollars before leaving.

Pre-departure Timing

Plan your departure well to avoid rushing.

Timings

  • Airport Check-in:Allow ample time
  • International Flights:2-3 hours before departure (MGA/LIR)
  • Land Border Departure:1-3 hours extra for queues
  • Travel to Airport/Border:Factor in potential traffic/delays

Departure Logistics

  • For inter-city travel, opt for local "chicken buses" over tourist shuttles for affordability.
  • Ensure your phone battery lasts for the journey.
  • Have enough local currency for any final purchases or fees.
  • Double-check luggage weight and size restrictions for your flight.

Final Thoughts

Allocate sufficient time for all departure formalities, whether flying or crossing a land border. This minimises stress on your final day.

Consider exchanging local currency back to USD before leaving Nicaragua.

← Previous
Digital Toolkit
← Back to San Juan Del Sur
Next →
Reflections

Next Up: Reflections

Continue to Reflections